Fixing up a new home is inevitable in many home purchases, but so many materials are often overlooked. There are a handful of on-trend items right now that homeowners may be forgetting when they're redesigning their new home. Take a look at these-- sometimes unconventional --choices:
Countertops
Concrete
These countertops do stain easily and require maintenance, but they can provide an amazing industrial look.
Synthetic Solid Surface
Synthetic or manufactured solid surface countertops are often composed of acrylic or polyester resins combined with other materials such as marble dust. They have a particularly high environmental impact and are not recyclable, though they’re often sought after for being less expensive than granite or marble, and are non-porous.
Paper Composite
Paper composite surfaces are made from recycled paper fibers which are combined with resin to create a smooth, matte surface that is stain and heat-proof, as well as easy to install.
Butcher Block
These more affordable tops are usually best bought through sustainably managed sources to avoid tipping the environmental impact scale, and can be made in a variety of hardwoods, finished with waxes or drying/nondrying oils. End grain butcher block tops get their unique look with fused pieces of wood rails. It’s important to remember that these should be maintained with sanding and oiling, and should never be directly cut on or scraped.
Backsplashes and Walls
Mirror
Mirrors make all spaces look larger while reflecting light, so they’re a good backsplash choice for a smaller kitchen.
Fishscale Tiles
This is a particularly trendy look for coastal-themed homes. Also called scallop or fan tiles, these are an amazing backsplash look, but they also work amazingly well on an entire wall or even the floor!
Flooring
Carpet tile
You’ve probably seen them in many a public place, like your child’s daycare— and for good reason! Coming in square sheets instead of an entire roll that requires measuring, cutting, and the ever-painful kicking is easy to install and to clean or replace. This is a great material for a basement, a home gym, or a playroom.
Rubber Flooring
This one has the opportunity to be extremely eco-friendly! That is of course if it’s made from recycled tires that would otherwise be sitting in a landfill. The texture of this flooring surface can be either bumpy or smooth and naturally gives a good feeling underfoot while acting as a great sound insulator.
Terrazzo Tiles
Terrazzo Tiles are another popular choice for public places but they're now becoming a favorable material in the home. As a cost-effective material made up of recycled mirror and marble, these allow minimal maintenance and strong durability.
And Beyond
Steel-Framed Showers
Somewhere between industrial modern and stylish vintage, dark, steel frames are popping up bathrooms. The window-like quality if often played up in larger standing showers, and almost gives a conservatory look indoors.
Vintage Furniture
Antiques can often be repurposed to fit aspects of your new home that need a reimagining. Bathroom vanities or kitchen islands are great spots to use vintage tables and cabinets.
Regardless of your material preference, a great home starts with a great agent. Give me a call today!
Jeff Mistretta
631-484-0133 | LongIslandAreaRealtor@gmail.com
